Considering patient values and treatment preferences enhances patient involvement in rectal cancer treatment decision making. Issue 2 (November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kunneman, Marleen; Marijnen, Corrie A.M.; Baas-Thijssen, Monique C.M.; van der Linden, Yvette M.; Rozema, Tom; Muller, Karin; Geijsen, Elisabeth D.; Stiggelbout, Anne M.; Pieterse, Arwen H.
• Is Part Of: Radiotherapy and oncology. Volume 117:Issue 2(2015:Nov.)
• Page Start: 338
• Page End: 342
• Publication Date: 2015-11
• Subjects: Rectal cancer -- Preoperative radiotherapy -- Shared decision making -- Treatment preferences -- Patient values -- Communication; Oncology -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Tumors -- Periodicals; Medical Oncology -- Periodicals; Neoplasms -- radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Radiotherapy -- Periodicals; Radiothérapie -- Périodiques; Cancérologie -- Périodiques; Tumeurs -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.9940642
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2015.09.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-8140

Abstract

Abstract: Background: The shared decision making (SDM) model states that patients' values and preferences should be clarified to choose a strategy that best fits the patient. This study aimed to assess whether values and preferences of rectal cancer patients are voiced and considered in deciding about preoperative radiotherapy (PRT), and whether this makes patients feel more involved in treatment decision making. Methods: Pre-treatment consultations of radiation oncologists and patients eligible for PRT were audiotaped ( N = 90). Tapes were transcribed and coded to identify patients' values and treatment preferences. Patients filled in a post-consultation questionnaire on their perceived involvement in decision making ( N = 60). Results: Patients' values were voiced for 62/611 of benefits/harms addressed (10%), in 38/90 consultations (42%; maximum 4 values per consultation), and most often related to major long-term treatment outcomes. Patients' treatment preferences were discussed in 20/90 consultations (22%). In 16/90 consultations (18%), the oncologists explicitly indicated to consider patients' values or preferences. Patients perceived a significantly more active role in decision making if their values or preferences had been voiced or considered. Conclusions: Patients' values and treatment preferences are voiced or considered in a minority of consultations. If they are, this increases patients' perceived involvement in the decision making process.